United Utilities starts hunt for around 40 new apprentices

• Application process opens for new United Utilities apprentices in 2021

• Roles offered for the first time this year include data modelling, construction supervision, project control and payroll

• Applications opened on February 8 and will run until March 7, for a September start

FANCY a career in modelling? Then an apprenticeship with water company United Utilities could be right up your street.

Modelling data is a vital part of the work the company’s 5,000 plus employees perform every day to keep the taps flowing and toilets flushing for seven million people across the North West.

The brand new role is one of nearly 40 apprenticeships the company is offering this year.

Applications opened this week for apprenticeship roles in science, engineering, data analysis and property buying, as well as, for the first time, data modelling, construction supervision, project control and payroll.

It could be the start of a great career, as Abdul Ghafaar, 28, from Burnley, found out.

“Since starting at United Utilities, I have grown both personally and professionally. Within a relatively short time I had the opportunity to experience working in many departments and have many memorable experiences – including being part of the early careers board and using my experience to help new starters into their careers. I’m also proud to be part of the multi-cultural group at United Utilities,” said Abdul, who completed his apprenticeship last year and is now an Instrumentation Field Service Engineer. Abdul was also a finalist in the BAME Apprenticeship Awards.

The region’s only FTSE100 company, United Utilities has a strong track record for offering quality apprenticeships across the region, which combine valuable practical hands-on skills with nationally recognised qualifications, including at degree-level.

The company has taken on hundreds of apprentices since 2015, including a record number during the coronavirus pandemic last year.

Julie McGovern, head of people for United Utilities said COVID had made job-hunting harder than ever and applications were not limited to any age group. Anyone can apply.

“Our apprenticeships are open to all, whether you’re fresh out of school or college, starting your work journey later in life or wanting to switch jobs paths. We’re also recognised for our approach to gender equality and diversity in the workplace. There really are no limits.

“We’re proud to be one of the top employers of apprentices in the UK and think it’s important to invest time in our apprentices like Abdul so they develop valuable skills. It is a great way to earn a wage while getting qualified and give you the chance to progress into many different roles.”

Applications close on March 7 2021. For more information, and to apply for an apprenticeship like Abdul’s, visit www.unitedutilities.com/apprenticeships